Sri Lanka looking for a fresh start as they begin their World T20 defense (VIDEO)

Captain of the Sri Lankan T20 team Angelo Mathews says that entering the World T20 as a team that is not favored to succeed is a “favor” for the team. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai on Wednesday (March 9^th) ahead of Sri lanka’s first practice match against New Zealand, Mathews noted that morale is high among the players adding that they are looking for a fresh start.

The Sri Lankan skipper noted that the Sri Lankan squad for the World T20 is relatively inexperienced in comparison to previous World Cup squads. He also noted that the team is not looking too far ahead and is merely looking to build some momentum during the games.

Speaking on the team’s performance during the recently concluded Asia Cup, Mathews accepted that Sri Lanka failed to play good cricket adding that the team found it difficult to even compete on some occasions.

Lasith Malinga who was slated to lead Sri Lanka’s title defense, stepped down from his position after he was sidelined due to injury during the Asia Cup. The skipper noted that Malinga is a vital part of the team and hoped that he would be able to take part in Sri Lanka’s first outing scheduled for the 17^th of this month.

Following the Asia cup there were some major changes that took place in Sri Lanka cricket, key among them was the appointment of a new board of selectors headed by veteran batsman Aravinda De Silva. The new selection committee also included former greats such as Romesh Kaluwitharana and Kumar Sanagakkara.

When questioned about the change in administration Mathews responded by stating that as cricketers it was their job to focus on the important tournament ahead of them adding that they are not worried by what happens outside the field.

Speaking on the appointment of Aravinda, Sangakkara and Kaluwitharan, the Sri Lankan skipper noted that having such individuals on the selection committee is a morale booster for the team and that the team is lucky to work with such individuals.

Sri Lanka will play two warmup games against New Zealand and Pakistan before beginning the Super 10 stage of the tournament. In the Super 10 stage Sri Lanka will compete alongside England, South Africa, West Indies and a team that will qualify from the group stage.

 

 

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